What are the Requirements for n8n VPS Hosting?

By Karthi | January 24, 2026

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For N8N VPS, you need at least 1 vCPU, 2GB RAM, and 20GB SSD for a VPS for basic use, but 2+ vCPUs and 4GB+ RAM are recommended for smooth performance, especially with complex or frequent workflows, plus an Ubuntu LTS OS, Docker, and PostgreSQL for production.

Choosing the right server involves more than just fulfilling the minimum specs. The ideal VPS setup for your n8n instance depends on your workflow’s complexity, its frequency, and the data volume it processes.

What is n8n VPS?

n8n VPS mean you run a n8n which is a open-source automation tool for workflow in Virtual Private Server (VPS). You can customize, add automated task for smooth workflow, connect apps through a dedicated resources with benefits like performance, control and cost-effectiveness with pre-installed n8n setup rather than managed n8n vps which is limits your control over the server level functions and need hosting provider support for any changes.

Simple, you can buy a n8n VPS hosting where the n8n setup is preinstalled once you purchase. You build and run your tasks for workflow in the self hosted VPS without needing to pay anything for n8n setup.

N8N VPS Configuration Details:

CPU considerations

n8n isn’t CPU-intensive, so even small instances should be sufficient for most use cases. Usually, memory requirements exceed CPU requirements, so focus resources there when planning your infrastructure.

Database considerations

n8n uses its database to handle credentials, past executions, and workflows.

A key feature of n8n VPS is its ability to choose from various databases. Each supported database has its own advantages and disadvantages, which you should assess individually to select the best option for your needs. If you do not specify a database, n8n will automatically create an SQLite database at the designated location.

n8n VPS advises that each instance should have its own database to prevent dependencies and possible performance problems. If a dedicated database isn’t practical, it recommends using Postgres’s schema feature as an alternative.

In Postgres, the database should already exist on the DB instance. The n8n VPS process’s database user must have full permissions on all current and upcoming tables. n8n VPS handles the creating and maintaining the database schema.

Best practices

• In containerized cloud environments, ensure that the volume is persisted and mounted correctly when stopping or starting a container. Failure to do so will result in data loss.
• If you’re using Postgres, avoid configuring the tablePrefix option, as it will soon be deprecated.
• Review the changelog of recent releases and think about reverting migrations before downgrading.
• Implement core database security and stability measures, such as IP allow lists and consistent backups.

Memory considerations

An n8n instance typically requires minimal memory, with an idle n8n Cloud instance using roughly 100MB. Your memory requirements mainly depend on the complexity of your workflows and the data they process.

For example, most nodes simply pass data along in the workflow, but the Code node creates copies for pre and post processing. This can consume all available resources when working with large binary files.

What are the minimum VPS requirements to run n8n?

The basic requirements for n8n VPS are a 1 vCPU core, 2 GB of RAM, and 20 GB of SSD storage. This setup is a good starting point that lets you install the software, learn its interface, and build basic automations.

• A single core processor, or 1 vCPU, is enough to run the n8n application and process simple workflows one after another.
• RAM. You need a minimum of 2 GB. While n8n VPS can operate on 1 GB, we don’t advise it, as this may lead to memory errors, even with basic workflows.
• Storage. At least 20 GB of SSD space is required, enough for the OS, Docker, n8n, and some workflow data and logs. SSDs are essential for faster read/write speeds, enhancing overall performance.
• Operating system (OS): A Linux distribution is required. Ubuntu 24.04 LTS is highly recommended because of its stability and strong community support.
• Having at least 1 TB of bandwidth ensures your workflows can reliably communicate with external services and APIs without interruptions.

This configuration is best for:

• Testing and development
• Personal projects
• Low-volume workflows

Conclusion

In short, n8n VPS can operate on modest VPS resources, but setting up properly is crucial. A minimum setup with 1 vCPU, 2 GB RAM, and about 20 GB SSD on a stable Linux OS allows you to run simple workflows. For better performance in production or for more intricate automations, it’s advisable to use at least 2 or more vCPUs, 4 GB or more RAM, along with a reliable database like PostgreSQL and persistent SSD storage. The exact needs vary based on your workflow complexity, frequency, and data size.